Urgent security warning over coronation weekend as celebrations put your home at risk – how to protect yourself
A SECURITY expert has warned homeowners to take extra steps this weekend as it’s a prime time for thieves to pounce on empty properties.
While thousands of Brits will swarm the streets of London for the King’s coronation tomorrow, hundreds will gather in crowds for street parties – and some may decide to jet off for the Bank Holiday weekend.
Locksmith Elizabeth Johns said this “absolutely” is a criminal‘s dream as they can spot the perfect moment to break into a home.
The expert warned of “multiple robberies” and offered crucial advice on how to protect your house if you’re not around.
She told The Sun: “I believe burglars will use this as an opportunity to break into people’s homes.
“This could be ample opportunity for multiple robberies to cars and homes.”
Elizabeth explained that Brits may think they’re not at risk if they’re heading along to celebrate at a street party as they’re not far from home.
But, the expert said: “Even though there will be a lot of people present, I feel that this could provide a false sense of home security.
“As we know these mainly take place at the front of houses and this leaves the back garden and rear of properties very vulnerable.
“I would urge people to make sure if they are attending street parties that all the windows and doors to the rear of the property are fully closed and locked and that no valuables are on display near windows – such as handbags and car and housekeys.”
She said there is also a risk for others who may be travelling further from home – to the coronation in the capital or on a long-weekend getaway.
Elizabeth, who owns Locksmith L&E, said: “A lot of streets will find that a lot of properties empty and possibly a lot of valuable cars left in driveways and on the street.
!This could be ample opportunity for multiple robberies.
“So once again make sure all windows and doors are closed fully and locked. No car keys are left within sight, or near a window, or reaching distance from the door.
“If anyone has a car with a keyless fob, make sure the key is secure and put away in faraday bags that will block any signals trying to start the car.”
The locksmith said while this weekend is a risky one for homeowners, robberies can happen at any time and it’s a timely reminder to always make sure your home is secure.
She added: “I would also urge anyone who is staying at home, if they do see any suspicious activity on their street day or night within these times, please alert the authorities to help keep crime to a minimum.”